Published: Friday, 27 March 2026
The English Chronicle Desk
The English Chronicle Online — World News
Two humanitarian aid vessels bound for Cuba have gone missing after departing Mexico, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation in the Caribbean. The Mexican navy confirmed that naval teams and military aircraft are scouring the waters for the sailboats Friendship and Tigger Moth, which were carrying at least nine crew members and vital supplies.
The ships left Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo, on 20 March, destined for Havana. They were expected to arrive by midweek but have not made contact since departure. Authorities say the crews include nationals from Poland, France, Cuba, and the United States. Mexico has coordinated with international maritime rescue centres and diplomatic representatives to aid the search.
A spokesperson for the convoy stressed that both captains are seasoned sailors and the vessels were equipped with safety systems and signalling devices. “We are co-operating fully with the authorities and remain confident in the crews’ ability to reach Havana safely,” the statement read. The Cuban government has yet to comment on the disappearance.
The incident comes just days after Cuba warmly welcomed another aid ship, Granma 2.0, which delivered 14 tonnes of supplies including solar panels, medicines, baby formula, bicycles, and food. The vessel’s name paid homage to the boat that carried Fidel Castro back to Cuba in the 1950s to launch the revolution.
Since January, volunteers and NGOs have spearheaded humanitarian deliveries to Cuba amid worsening shortages. The United Nations has warned of “dire” conditions, with more than 50,000 surgeries cancelled due to electricity constraints. Mexico’s shipments have become critical as Cuba struggles with nationwide blackouts under the US fuel embargo imposed by President Donald Trump.
The embargo followed the US seizure of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, cutting off Cuba’s oil lifeline from its regional ally. Trump has since escalated pressure on Havana, even suggesting a “friendly takeover” of Cuba, remarks that drew sharp rebuke from Cuban officials. Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio insisted Cuba’s political system “is not up for negotiation.” President Miguel Díaz-Canel has acknowledged early-stage talks with Washington, though progress remains uncertain.
For now, the focus remains on locating the missing vessels. The Mexican navy has pledged to deploy all available resources to ensure the safety of the crews, while families and aid organisers await news with growing concern.



























































































